Mpox in the Philippines: What Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Cases

If you're planning a trip around the Philippines, especially to Iloilo City or Central Visayas, it's worth staying updated on the latest health advisories. As of late May 2025, the country has seen a rise in mpox (monkeypox) cases, prompting health authorities to act swiftly to prevent further spread.

Monkey Pox | World Health Organization Official Website

Whether you're a local traveller or an international tourist exploring the archipelago, understanding the situation can help you stay safe and travel responsibly.

Also read: Must-Have Health Goals That Go Way Beyond Achieving Your Dream Body

Iloilo confirms first Mpox case

Iloilo City | Drone Pilot via Wikimedia Commons

On May 28, 2025, the Iloilo City Health Office (CHO) confirmed the city's first monkeypox case. The patient, notably, had no recent travel history, and four other individuals are currently under observation and isolation as suspected cases. This has understandably caused concern among residents and travellers alike.

According to Dr. Mary Ann Diaz, head of CHO, there is no evidence of community transmission at this time. Still, contact tracing is ongoing, with coordination from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) to manage specimen testing.

Meanwhile, nine close contacts linked to a separate confirmed case in Iloilo Province are currently undergoing home isolation, monitored closely by local health authorities. The swift response from the city government, led by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, has included the mobilisation of all departments to support public health measures and contain any potential spread.

Central Visayas: Preparing before the storm

Department of Health | patrickroque01 via Wikimedia Commons

While Central Visayas, which includes popular destinations like Cebu and Bohol, has not yet recorded any confirmed mpox cases, the Department of Health – Central Visayas (DOH-7) is not taking any chances. They are currently finalising monkeypox protocols to prepare for any possible outbreaks.

Health officials have assured the public that accurate information and guidelines will be released soon. In the meantime, Bohol’s Provincial Health Office (PHO) took the initiative by issuing an advisory as early as May 27. The memo instructed hospitals, clinics, and epidemiology surveillance units (MESUs, CESUs, HESUs) to remain alert, enhance disease monitoring, and begin informing the public on monkeypox symptoms and prevention.

Symptoms and how it spreads

Monkey Pox Virus | NIAID via Wikimedia Commons

So, what exactly is mpox? Formerly known as monkeypox, it is a viral illness caused by the Monkeypox Virus (MPXV), which is closely related to smallpox. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a public health emergency in 2022 due to a global surge in cases, mainly driven by the Clade IIB strain.

Key symptoms include:

• Fever

• Severe headache

• Muscle and back pain

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Low energy

• Distinctive skin rashes, which can appear on the face, body, genitals, or inside the mouth

The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects such as bedsheets, towels, or clothing. In rare cases, it can also be transmitted from animals to humans through bites or the handling of infected animals. Pregnant individuals are at higher risk due to the possibility of passing the infection to the unborn child.

What travellers should do

With popular festivals, heritage sites, and beaches drawing thousands of visitors to places like Iloilo and Central Visayas, it’s important to keep yourself informed. Health officials are encouraging everyone to:

• Practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly or using alcohol-based sanitisers

• Avoid crowded places where skin-to-skin contact is more likely

• Stay home and self-isolate if you notice any symptoms

• Seek medical attention early to ensure proper care and avoid transmission

• Follow official updates from the Department of Health (DOH)

Also read: Abaca Face Masks: Everything You Need to Know

A note on safety and travel

While the news of mpox cases might seem alarming, it’s important to remember that the Philippine health system is actively working to manage the situation. From South Cotabato to Zamboanga Peninsula, Maguindanao, and Iloilo, local governments are taking coordinated steps in surveillance, testing, and public education.

As of writing, monkeypox in the Philippines remains relatively contained, thanks to early detection and government vigilance. If you're visiting or currently in the affected areas, stay alert but don’t panic. Travelling smart and staying informed is your best protection.

To summarise: mpox is preventable. With the right precautions and awareness, you can continue to enjoy your travels across the Philippines safely. Keep an eye on DOH Central Visayas updates, and stay tuned for region-specific monkeypox health advisories.

Safe travels, and don’t forget to prioritise your health while you explore the beauty of the Philippines.